Could a Pet Help?: The Therapeutic Value of Animals
It has been well established that pets can have a profound effect on the health and well-being of humans. And that includes benefits for people who have mental health issues.
It has been well established that pets can have a profound effect on the health and well-being of humans. And that includes benefits for people who have mental health issues.
There are lots of research studies that support the value of including animals as part of a treatment plan for a wide range of health issues. But no studies have specifically looked at the experience of people who have borderline personality disorder and also own pets. Until now…
It’s no surprise to hear that having a pet can boost feelings of well-being in Tabby or Fido’s owner. Now there is scientific proof that this also occurs in people who have borderline personality disorder.
The research team use MRI brain scans to monitor activity in the ventral striatum, an area of the brain that is important in the feeling of happiness.
People were asked about their happiness levels before and after the experiment. Those who had been more generous during the experiment were happier